Eleanor Rances

This document, an Annual PHA Plan, reports on the progress of the Somerville Housing Authority's 5-year strategic plan for Fiscal Years 2025-2029. The plan is designed to redevelop and modernize housing programs and enhance communication and services for residents. Key strategic pillars include improving operational efficiency through digitization and advanced technology, undertaking significant redevelopment projects such as Clarendon Hill and Waterworks II, modernizing public housing units, and stabilizing tenancies through comprehensive resident support services, including Family Self Sufficiency, homeownership programs, emergency rental assistance, and eviction prevention measures. The Authority also aims to secure additional project-based vouchers and ensure fiscal responsibility.

The Executive Director reported on successful relocations, screening families from the waitlist, and the execution of leases for Waterworks II units. Leasing at Waterworks II is nearing completion, and Clarendon site close-out is anticipated following final resident relocations. The Resident Services department reported on holiday assistance provided to families and the distribution plan for Wi-Fi passwords. The Director of Finance and Administration noted updates to financial reporting for improved clarity. Development updates confirmed Clarendon Phase I completion and ongoing progress for Phase II, with proceeds from the Monmouth property sale earmarked to repay the loan for Waterworks II. A new police officer was hired, although language regarding the Mayor's authority to grant police powers in the City Charter is being addressed. New business included the approval of a design contract with C.A. Crowley Engineering, Inc. for the Weston Manor HVAC Controls Replacement Project due to obsolescence of existing thermostats, and the formal approval of the SHA Tenant on Tenant Harassment Policy.

Key discussions included addressing a Section 8 Audit Finding for Fiscal Year Ending 3/31/24, noting that corrective actions, including new staff training and monthly file audits, have been implemented. The Development Update provided an overview of the Waterworks II project, with a projected mid-March completion, anticipated to come in under budget. New business involved the discussion and adoption of resolutions authorizing the exit of the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Investor and a subsequent transfer of interest in One Capen Court to allow for continued project operation. Furthermore, the Board approved a design contract with EHA Design, Inc. for the Mystic River/View Developments Window Replacement Project and approved Change Order #04 to New England Builders and Contractors, Inc. for elevator troubleshooting and repairs at Properzi Manor. The session concluded with the introduction of a new Public Safety Consultant.

The public hearing focused on new business items. Key discussions involved the overview of the Federal 5-Year and Annual Plan and the State Annual Plan, detailing goals, policy updates, the 5-year Capital Plan, and performance reviews, with public feedback solicited during a comment period. Future goals detailed included completing redevelopment phases (Clarendon Hill Phase 1 and Waterworks II), preserving tenancy in collaboration with the City of Somerville and Legal Services, strengthening ties between Legal Services and Resident Services, revising the Emergency and Evacuation Plan, improving the Public Safety Department, completing a surveillance system study, and prioritizing energy conservation and Wi-Fi installation for residents. The body subsequently approved the FY 2025 Federal 5-Year and Annual Plan and the FY 2026 State Annual Plan.

The meeting addressed the approval of previous minutes and resident input, with a focus on concerns related to maintenance following a recent fire at the Clarendon Hill development. The Executive Director provided an update on the fire response, noting that all displaced families would be rehoused promptly. Development updates included ongoing testing for contamination at Waterworks II and an unfavorable draft decision regarding prevailing wage requirements for modular housing units for the Clarendon Hill redevelopment. New business involved approving the permanent status for two employees, Mark O'Meara (Working Foreman) and Chris Houghton (Painter). Furthermore, the Board approved Certificates of Substantial Completion and Final Completion and Payment for the Mystic View Roof Replacement Phase 4, awarded a design contract for the Hagan Manor parking lot repaving, and approved Certificates of Substantial Completion and Final Completion and Payment for the Bryant Manor Exterior Power Wash project. The Open Session included discussion on setting aside public housing units for formerly incarcerated individuals.